In an 8" saute or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil and saute the vegetables, bay leaf and Thyme over med-low until the vegetables are very soft and lightly browned. Add more oil if needed to keep them from sticking. Add the lentils and cover with water about an inch over the top of the lentils. Simmer uncovered until water is completely absorbed and lentils are very soft, about 30-40 minutes. Add more water if necessary.
Discard bay leaf. Transfer lentil mixture to a food processor. Add salt and puree until smooth. Refregerate. Serve on crackers. You can also use a blender, but it will not be as smooth. Do it in smaller batches rather than all at once. This recipe is free of wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, yeast, corn, and egg.